Name: Sichuan Spicy Wontons in Chili Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Sichuan
Ingredients: 1 recipe dumplings wrappers instructions for wontons or 40 store-bought wrappers; 1-2 tbsp sesame oil; 7 oz (200 g) tofu, pressed and crumbled; 7 oz (200 g) mushrooms, finely chopped; ½ stick leek (60 g), finely chopped; 1 carrot (100 g), grated; 7 oz (200 g) napa cabbage, finely chopped; 2 garlic cloves, chopped; 1 tbsp grated ginger; 2 tbsp soy sauce or tamari; 1 tbsp rice vinegar; Salt and pepper, to taste; ⅔ cup (160 ml) sweet chili sauce or chili oil; 2 tbsp chili oil or sesame oil; 2 tbsp soy sauce or tamari; 2 tsp black vinegar or rice vinegar (to taste); 2 garlic cloves, finely grated; 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds; 2 tbsp spring onions, finely sliced

Jump to Recipe· 3.8 from 56 reviews

If you love bold flavors that dance on your tongue, then the Sichuan Spicy Wontons in Chili Sauce Recipe is about to become your new obsession. These delicate little parcels are bursting with a hearty vegetable and tofu filling, all wrapped in pillowy wonton skins and drenched in a spicy, tangy chili sauce that packs a serious punch. It’s the perfect balance of silky textures and fiery heat that’s both comforting and exciting. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy night in or entertaining friends, this dish never fails to impress with its vibrant flavors and inviting aroma.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A top view of a light gray bowl filled with a colorful mix of chopped vegetables including orange carrots, green cabbage, and brown mushrooms, plus small bits of meat, all mixed together with a wooden spoon inside the bowl. Nearby, a single piece of a square white wrapper sits on a white marbled surface with a small round mound of the same veggie and meat mix on top. Next to it, there is a small white bowl with light brown seasoning inside. Multiple square sheets of white dough wrappers are spread out below these items on the white marbled surface photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Getting the ingredients right is the secret to nailing this Sichuan Spicy Wontons in Chili Sauce Recipe. Each component brings something unique—whether it’s the silky tofu adding protein, the fresh crunch from napa cabbage and carrots, or the kick from garlic and ginger. The sauce ties everything together with its perfect blend of sweet, sour, and spicy notes, making every bite unforgettable.

Wonton Wrappers: Use either freshly made dumpling wrappers or 40 good quality store-bought ones for convenience and a tender texture.
Sesame Oil (1-2 tbsp): Adds a nutty warmth that enhances the vegetable filling’s flavor.
Tofu (7 oz, pressed and crumbled): Acts as a soft, protein-packed base that soaks up all the savory seasoning.
Mushrooms (7 oz, finely chopped): Provides an earthy richness that complements the tofu beautifully.
Leek (½ stick, finely chopped): Offers a mild onion flavor for freshness and depth.
Carrot (1, grated): Brings a subtle sweetness and vibrant color.
Napa Cabbage (7 oz, finely chopped): Adds crunch and lightness to balance out the warm filling.
Garlic (2 cloves, chopped): Essential for that signature aromatic punch.
Ginger (1 tbsp, grated): Infuses a sharp, zesty undertone that livens up the filling.
Soy Sauce or Tamari (2 tbsp): Contributes a salty umami flavor that binds everything together.
Rice Vinegar (1 tbsp): Adds a subtle tang that brightens the dish.
Salt and Pepper: To taste, enhancing the natural flavors.
Sweet Chili Sauce (⅔ cup): The base of the chili sauce, bringing a sweet heat to the final dish.
Chili Oil or Sesame Oil (2 tbsp): Boosts the spicy kick and aromatic depth of the sauce.
Black Vinegar or Rice Vinegar (2 tsp): Provides a sharp acidity that balances the sweetness.
Garlic (2 cloves, finely grated): Packs a fresh punch straight into the sauce.
Toasted Sesame Seeds (1 tbsp, optional): For garnish, adding a subtle crunch and nutty flavor.
Spring Onions (2 tbsp, finely sliced, optional): A fresh finish with a mild bite and lovely color.

How to Make Sichuan Spicy Wontons in Chili Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Preparing the Vegetable Filling

Start by pressing the tofu really well to squeeze out any extra moisture and then crumble it into small bits. Finely chop your mushrooms, leek, napa cabbage, and grate the carrot for a medley of textures and flavors. Heat sesame oil in a large pan over high heat and toss in the tofu, mushrooms, and leek. Cook them until they develop a beautiful golden brown around 2 to 3 minutes. Next, add the carrots and napa cabbage, and sauté for about 3 more minutes until tender but still vibrant. Stir in the garlic, ginger, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and season with salt and pepper. Let everything steam together for a minute so the flavors harmonize. Set this flavor-packed filling aside to cool before wrapping.

Step 2: Folding the Wontons

Place a generous teaspoon of the cooled filling right in the center of each wonton wrapper. Dip your finger in water and moisten the edges of the wrapper to ensure a perfect seal. Fold one corner diagonally over the filling to create a triangle, pressing the edges tightly so none of the goodness escapes during cooking. Then bring the two long corners toward the center so they overlap and pinch firmly to lock them in place. Remember, keep the wrappers covered as you work because they dry out quickly. This step might take a little practice, but once you get the hang of it, shaping these wontons feels almost meditative.

Step 3: Cooking the Wontons

Bring a large pot of water to a gentle boil. Add the wontons carefully, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot—too many at once and they might stick together or cook unevenly. Let them simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes or until they float to the surface and look translucent. Keep stirring occasionally with a slotted spoon to prevent sticking. Once cooked, scoop them out and drain well in a bowl. If you prefer, you can also deep-fry your wontons for a crispy twist or add them to a flavorful dumpling soup for a comforting meal.

Step 4: Making the Chili Sauce

In a bowl, mix together the sweet chili sauce, chili or sesame oil, soy sauce, black or rice vinegar, and finely grated garlic. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed—it should have a lively balance of sweet, spicy, and sour notes. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of the water used to cook the wontons to loosen it up. This sauce is the heart of the Sichuan Spicy Wontons in Chili Sauce Recipe, so don’t be shy about tasting as you go.

Step 5: Serving the Wontons

Pour the vibrant chili sauce generously over the cooked wontons and toss gently to coat each one in that tongue-tingling goodness. Sprinkle with optional toasted sesame seeds and spring onions for an extra burst of flavor and color. Now you’re ready to dig in!

How to Serve Sichuan Spicy Wontons in Chili Sauce Recipe

A white bowl filled with several dumplings covered in a shiny reddish-orange sauce. The dumplings have a smooth, slightly translucent dough with folds and are sprinkled with small white sesame seeds, red chili flakes, and chopped green onions. Bright slices of red chili pieces are visible among the dumplings, adding contrast. A woman's hand with red-painted nails is holding chopsticks picking up one dumpling from the bowl. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface with some scattered chili flakes and chili peppers around it. In the background, small bowls and ingredients add a rustic feel. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds and finely sliced spring onions adds a lovely crunch and freshness that perfectly contrasts with the spicy sauce. These simple garnishes elevate the dish visually and flavor-wise, making each bite even more delightful.

Side Dishes

Keep things balanced by pairing these wontons with a light cucumber salad or some steamed greens like bok choy. A bowl of fragrant jasmine rice is always a great option to help mellow out the heat and round out the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a party or gathering, try stacking the wontons on a stylish platter with little bowls of extra chili sauce for dipping. You can also serve them individually in small bamboo steamers to add an authentic touch. Drizzle any leftover chili oil over the top for a glossy finish. Presentation can be as fun and colorful as the dish itself!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover wontons, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to two days. Keep the sauce separate so the wontons don’t get soggy and retain their delightful texture.

Freezing

Sichuan Spicy Wontons in Chili Sauce Recipe is freezer-friendly too. Arrange uncooked wontons in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer them to a freezer bag for up to a month. When ready to enjoy, cook them straight from frozen, just adding a minute or two to the boiling time.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the wontons in hot water for a couple of minutes or steam them until heated through. Avoid microwaving if possible to keep the wrappers perfectly tender and avoid a rubbery texture. Reheat the chili sauce separately and pour it over when serving.

FAQs

Can I use meat instead of tofu in the filling?

Absolutely! Ground pork or chicken can be a fantastic alternative if you’re not vegetarian. Just sauté the meat until cooked through before adding the vegetables and seasonings.

What if I can’t find wonton wrappers?

You can usually find wonton wrappers in the refrigerated section of Asian groceries or frozen in some supermarkets. If unavailable, spring roll wrappers or even gyoza wrappers can work in a pinch.

How spicy is this Sichuan Spicy Wontons in Chili Sauce Recipe?

The heat level can be adjusted easily by controlling the amount of chili oil and sweet chili sauce you use. It’s pleasantly spicy with a good balance of sweetness, but feel free to add more chili oil if you love it fiery.

Can I prepare the filling ahead of time?

Yes! You can make the filling a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just bring it to room temperature before assembling the wontons to make folding easier.

Is there a vegan version of the chili sauce?

Most sweet chili sauces and soy sauces are already vegan, but always double-check labels. This recipe is vegan-friendly since it features tofu and vegetable filling, making it perfect for plant-based diets.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about making Sichuan Spicy Wontons in Chili Sauce Recipe from scratch—it’s a beautiful blend of comforting textures and lively flavors that never fails to satisfy. Once you try making these at home, I promise you’ll want to share them with everyone you know. So roll up your sleeves, gather those simple ingredients, and dive into this delightful culinary adventure. Your taste buds will thank you!